The Alpha's Mate

Chapter 3: The Pack

The next day, Kai took Maya to meet the pack.

She stood nervously beside him, her heart racing. She had never felt so out of place. Everyone was watching her, staring at her like she was a stranger who had wandered into their world.

"Maya," Kai said, his voice calm and reassuring. "This is my pack. They are your pack now too."

Maya's throat tightened. "I don't know how to be part of a pack."

"You don't have to know," Kai said. "Just be yourself."

A woman stepped forward. She had long red hair and sharp green eyes. She smiled warmly, but there was something calculating in her gaze.

"So this is the famous mate," the woman said. "I have to say, I expected someone... more impressive."

Maya stiffened. "Excuse me?"

"Elena," Kai said, his voice cold. "Be respectful."

Elena shrugged. "I'm just saying. She's human. How can she possibly lead this pack?"

"I never said I wanted to lead," Maya said, her voice sharp. "I never asked for any of this."

Elena smirked. "And yet here you are."

Maya felt a surge of anger, and something else. Something hot and fierce. A low growl escaped her throat before she could stop it.

Everyone froze.

Maya's eyes widened. "Did I just...?"

Kai placed a hand on her shoulder. "Your wolf is protective," he said gently. "She senses the threat and wants to defend you. It's natural."

Elena stepped back, her smirk gone. "She has a wolf," she muttered. "I didn't think she would."

"Surprise," Maya said dryly.

Kai smiled. "I told you. You're not as human as you think."

Elena scoffed. "Fine. We'll see if she lasts." She turned and walked away, her long hair swinging behind her.

Maya exhaled slowly. "She hates me."

"She's jealous," Kai said. "She wanted to be my Luna. But she's not my mate. You are."

Maya looked up at him. "Why me? Why not someone like her, someone who belongs here?"

Kai cupped her face gently, his silver eyes locked on hers. "Because fate chose you, Maya. Because you're strong. You're fierce. And even when you're scared, you don't back down. That's why you're my mate."

Maya's heart pounded. "I don't know if I can do this."

"You don't have to do it alone," he said softly. "I'll be right beside you. Always."